Updated November 3, 2026 · Local data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates
Clearwater at a glance
Local notes: Clearwater
The county seat stretches from Clearwater Beach on its barrier island, through downtown, to the newer Countryside area in the north. Beach condos, 1970s–80s single-family subdivisions and 55+ communities all trade here.
Hurricane Helene's 2024 storm surge flooded many homes on Pinellas barrier islands. Under the National Flood Insurance Program's substantial-damage rule (the "50% rule"), a heavily damaged or heavily renovated older home may have to be elevated or brought up to current flood code. That affects price, insurability and renovation plans, so ask for permits, damage determinations and an elevation certificate.
Condos are a big part of the Clearwater market. Florida's post-Surfside condo safety laws require milestone structural inspections and fully funded structural reserves for many buildings. Review the association's reserve study, milestone reports and any special assessments before you buy or list.
Housing stock in Clearwater
Clearwater has about 61,123 housing units. 45% are single-family homes and 36% are in buildings with 10 or more units, and 5% are mobile or manufactured homes. 56% of homes were built before 1980 and 16% were built in 2000 or later. The median resident is 46.6 years old. About 10% of housing units are seasonal or occasional-use homes, so part-time residents are a meaningful slice of the market.
With 36% of homes in larger buildings, condo comps dominate here. Pricing a single-family home calls for an agent who filters comps carefully.
How Clearwater compares
A median value of $361,300 puts Clearwater at #19 of 32 places in Pinellas County (highest value first). The median household income here is $66,381, so the typical home costs about 5.4× annual household income. That is a stretch for many local buyers, so pricing right the first time matters.
About 59% of occupied homes in Clearwater are owner-occupied. A large share of homes here are rentals, so investors are a real part of the buyer pool. Agents often market to both groups.
What it may cost to sell a $361,300 home
| Item | Typical basis | On $361,300 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida deed doc stamps | $0.70 per $100 (set by state law) | $2,529 |
| Owner's title policy (if seller pays) | Florida promulgated rate | ≈ $1,882 |
| Brokerage commission | Negotiable. Example at 5% / 6% total | $18,065 / $21,678 |
| Title/settlement fees, prorated taxes, HOA | Varies | Ask for a net sheet |
In Pinellas the seller customarily pays for the owner's title policy, but it's negotiable in the contract. Commissions are always negotiable and are not set by law or by us.
Selling an older home in Clearwater
Half the homes in Clearwater were built in 1978 or earlier, about 48 years ago and before the 2002 Florida Building Code. Buyers' insurers will usually ask for a 4-point inspection (roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC). Getting one done before you list lets you fix deal-killers on your own schedule instead of during the inspection period.
Clearwater vs. similar communities
| Community | Median value | Median income |
|---|---|---|
| Clearwater | $361,300 | $66,381 |
| Gulfport | $366,200 | $71,203 |
| St. Petersburg | $371,100 | $75,192 |
| South Pasadena | $350,200 | $53,075 |
| Seminole | $348,500 | $75,774 |
| Oldsmar | $380,300 | $88,333 |
Getting matched in Clearwater
Fill in the short form. We pass your request to one listing agent covering Clearwater, not a shared list. Expect a call or text, usually within the business day. If the fit isn't right, ask us for someone else.
Frequently asked questions
How much is my home worth in Clearwater?
The Census Bureau's latest 5-year estimate puts the median owner-estimated home value in Clearwater at $361,300. Your home's price depends on recent nearby sales, condition, flood zone and roof age, so ask a local agent for a comparable-sales review.
Who pays title insurance when selling in Clearwater?
In Pinellas County the seller customarily pays for the owner's title policy, but the purchase contract decides it and it can be negotiated.
Do I have to disclose problems when I sell in Florida?
Yes. Florida courts require sellers to disclose known defects that materially affect value and aren't readily observable. Florida has also expanded its flood disclosure rules, so ask your agent for the current disclosure forms.
How does the 50% rule affect homes in Clearwater?
If a home's damage or planned improvements reach 50% of the structure's market value, NFIP rules generally require it to meet current flood elevation standards. That can mean elevating or rebuilding. Ask the local building department for any substantial-damage determination on the property.